Mercedes-Benz G-Class to Change Dramatically

A planned facelift for the Mercedes-Benz G-Class will be so extensive that "it will in effect be a new car" when it goes on sale in 2017. The biggest priority will be to make the car wider, according to a new report in the UK's Autocar. The wider G-Class will create a more stable vehicle and will also accommodate a new front suspension. The interior will also benefit with more space and broader seats in the front and back. With all the changes, Mercedes realizes there's a delicate balancing act to maintain much of what has made the SUV so successful."We have to be careful with our heritage. We offer something really special. Last year--the 34th--was the best ever for G-Class sales. It's amazing, and one of our idols," Mercedes SUV boss Andreas Zygan told the outlet.Other big changes include two new engines, expected to debut first on the 2016 E-Class. New 3.0-liter, six-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines will power entry-level models, with the gas engine expected to churn out 360 horsepower, while the diesel is expected to be rated at 300 horses. The engines are expected to push less weight as well, as the next G-Class will utilize more aluminum in its frame, helping it shed more than 400 pounds. That paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission should yield dramatically better fuel economy. Range-topping AMG versions--which account for half of G-Class sales--are expected to follow.Source: Autocar

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